16-year-old Alex Acuna is rewriting what it means to be a one-man highlight reel. At San Pasqual Valley High School in California, the 5-foot-9, 180-pound dynamo has been dazzling fans by slipping past defenders, shutting down offenses, and even being the difference maker on special teams.
In one jaw-dropping game in 2023, he snagged three interceptions, reading the quarterback like an open book and taking the ball the other way with ease.
But calling him a defensive back doesn’t even come close. The young football prodigy serves excellently as a wide receiver, running back, kicker, punter, linebacker, punt returner, and kick returner. If there’s a snap, there’s a good chance he’s in on it.
In fact, his coach has posted tons of Alex’s stunning stats and even hinted at the long-term success teams could reap from him if the coaches developed an interest in the kid. “This kid has a leg. College coaches need to really check him out,” posted Coach Miguel on X. Simply put, Alex Acuna is the kind of talent you don’t forget.
Alex Acuna’s Dominance at San Pasqual Valley High
Acuna has built a name as one of the most versatile young high school football players in California. He started his football journey in San Pasqual Middle School and Yuma’s Catch and Go Flag Football league, but he is now making waves in his varsity team, the San Pasqual Warriors. He even scored 3 interceptions in an NFL YET game in 2023, a game which he keeps replaying in his head.
Last year alone, the Class of 2027 graduate recorded 49 carries for 459 yards and 2 touchdowns, plus 36 receptions for 335 yards and 3 more scores.
On special teams, he’s stacked up 740 kickoff yards and 1,006 punt return yards during the 2024-2025 season. Defensively during the same season, Acuna delivered 69 tackles, 2 sacks, and 2 pass deflections.
With this kind of all-around production, he’s proving he can impact the game in every phase, making him a player every recruiter should have on their radar.
Stats that Prove Alex Acuna is Built Different
Alex’s resume already reads like that of a seasoned athlete, and he’s only getting started. In 2024, he earned 1st Team All-Region honors as a Kicker and 2nd Team All-Region recognition as a Linebacker.
The year before, he was named 2nd Team All-Region Running Back. As a freshman, he was crowned AZ Sports Network Freshman of the Year.
Speaking to Pro Football Action, Alex sent a clear message to college coaches: “I am a hard worker and give it my all every day.” And when it comes to moments of adversity, he follows just one mantra: “Keep going, things will get better.”
With that attitude, his impact extends beyond the gridiron, as he plays soccer and even wrestles, showcasing his versatility and athleticism throughout the year.
Besides, Acuna boasts impressive PRs of 325-pound squat, a 280-pound bench press, and a 4.7-second 40-yard dash, showcasing a rare strength, speed, and explosive football power, and his Hudl profile is proof of that.
With such impressive numbers and achievements, it’s no surprise he’s already drawing the attention of recruiters looking for their next difference-maker. “I’m talking to a few schools,” Alex said.
Coach Miguel Rivas Sings Massive Praises for Alex
San Pasqual Valley Warriors’ Head Coach Miguel Rivas has had plenty to say about his standout athlete and team captain, Alex Acuna, and all of it is glowing. On social media, Rivas praised him early: “Freshman RB Alex Acuna is making a difference… he has stepped up to be one of the best players on the team. A lot more work to do.”
After another big performance, Rivas added, “Congrats… on an outstanding game… Can’t wait to watch this kid grow.”
Speaking to Pro Football Action, Rivas called him “an all-around player” who loves the grind, works hard in the weight room and practice, and leads by example.
“Alex is a all around player, he loves the grind, loves to work hard in the weight room and in practice. He is a true leader that leads by example. I have seen him grow from being a regular player to becoming a captain and being one of the best players on the team. He has also grown in the class room from being ineligible a few games freshman year to being eligible all year as sophmore,” coach Rivas said.
From overcoming freshman-year eligibility issues to becoming a captain and one of the best on the roster, Acuna’s growth on and off the field has been remarkable.
As Alex Acuna enters his junior season, coach Miguel Rivas holds high expectations for his team captain.
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